08/04/2026
That’s a wrap on James and the Giant Peach Jr. and Chicago: Teen Edition!
What an unforgettable summer at Boxcar Stage Company!
Over the past few weeks, we had the privilege of working with three incredible groups of young artists.
This summer marked the launch of our very first Boxcar Minis (ages 5-7) program! A special shout-out to Eilie Boylan and Ronan O’Connor for their leadership of this new endeavor. With creativity, patience, and enthusiasm, they introduced our youngest performers to the joy of theater. Eilie also created the incredible stage makeup for James and the Giant Peach Jr.!
In just 14 rehearsals, the James and the Giant Peach Jr. cast brought this magical adventure to life. They not only learned their lines, music, and choreography, but also how to perform alongside a live orchestra. We could not be prouder of everything they accomplished.
And in just 20 days, our teen company took on Chicago: Teen Edition, mastering the iconic style of Bob Fosse while performing alongside a live 13-piece orchestra. Their dedication, growth, and commitment were incredible to watch.
A special congratulations to Luke Palmer on his directorial debut with James and the Giant Peach Jr. Congratulations as well to our longtime student and graduating senior, Ariel Phong, on her music directorial debut! We were so proud to watch you both step into leadership roles and guide such an incredible cast.
We are also endlessly grateful to Liam Corey who stage managed both of these productions, and to Luke Gibbons, Ruby Dolgon, Jayce Crichlow, Caeli Aucoin, and Sadie Wetzner-Crothers for sharing their talent, energy, and dedication with our students every day. They helped make this summer such a success.
A heartfelt thank you to the musicians in our live pit orchestras who continue to bring our productions to life. Live music has always been a cornerstone of our mission, and we are so grateful for the artistry they share with our students and audiences.
To our families who welcomed audiences, sold concessions, volunteered behind the scenes, and supported us every step of the way, thank you.
We also want to recognize our incredible set builders and artists, Andrew and Meghan Kasper, whose creativity transforms our visions into reality each season.
Thank you to Karen Cahill, Tom Ranton, and the entire Pierce School custodial team for helping make another summer in Milton Public Schools possible.
To our graduating seniors, Shannon, Sydney, Ariel, Emma, and Emilio: thank you for everything you have brought to Boxcar. Watching you grow into the performers and people you are today has been one of the greatest joys of this company. We are so proud of you, and you will always have a home here. ❤️
This fall, we will be offering classes, including Musical Theater Dance and Acting a Song, alongside our private lesson program. Registration opens later this August, and we cannot wait to continue creating with all of you!
Finally, thank you to every student, family member, audience member, volunteer, and supporter who made this summer so special. Your belief in live theater and arts education allows Boxcar to grow and we are so grateful to have this incredible community beside us.
We’ll see you this fall!
